Twelve-year-old Wendy is enjoying a beautiful hike in Joshua Tree National Park with her older sister and a friend, and her dog, Marshmallow. At least, she is TRYING to enjoy it. The older girls are in a hurry, while Wendy wants to stop and look at every plant and view. Then, Marshmallow darts after another animal. Wendy chases him, and soon realizes they are lost. Alone in the Mojave Desert, Wendy faces blistering temperatures, a deadly snake and the challenges of finding food and water. She must use her wits to recall facts about the desert that will keep her alive until her rescuers come. but will they find her in time? This exciting fictional adventure will have readers cheering for Wendy to stay strong.